(Toronto, Ont.–October, 1 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario express strong support for recent investigations between First Nation police services and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). These joint operations are crucial in combating organized crime networks that exploit First Nation lands and threaten the safety and sovereignty of our communities.

A recent collaboration between the Tyendinaga Police Service and the OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau highlights the effectiveness and professionalism of our First Nation police officers. These partnerships are essential in addressing complex criminal activities that cross jurisdictional boundaries and directly impact the well-being of First Nations citizens.

“I commend the Tyendinaga Police Service for their unwavering commitment to community safety,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “I also extend my appreciation to the elected council and the community for their continued support of Tyendinaga Police in the important work they do. This collaboration exemplifies the strength and resilience of our First Nations when we work together in the interest of community well-being.

While these successes are significant, systemic inequities continue to undermine First Nations’ ability to protect their people. For decades, First Nations policing has been underfunded and treated as a discretionary “program” under the federal First Nations and Inuit Policing Program – an unacceptable reality.

Despite this, First Nation police services consistently demonstrate leadership by actively forming collaborative relationships with external agencies and remain steadfast in their commitment to public safety as a frontline essential service.

First Nation police officers are highly trained, deeply committed, and possess invaluable community knowledge. They are often the first responders in crises, yet they operate without the legislative recognition, equitable resources, or funding parity afforded to their non-First Nation counterparts. The federal government’s refusal to recognize First Nations policing as an essential service continues to create dangerous gaps in public safety and disregards the inherent right of First Nations to self-governance.

The Chiefs of Ontario will continue to advocate for the co-development of new First Nations Police Services Legislation. This legislation must recognize First Nations policing as an essential service and provide adequate, stable, and predictable funding for effective community protection.

We urgently call upon the Government of Canada to end delays and work with First Nations Leadership to enact legislation that respects First Nations jurisdiction and ensures the safety of everyone living in or travelling through our territories. The security of our communities cannot wait.

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn @ChiefsOfOntario

Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt
Communications Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-819-8184
Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org